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"They represent a substantial increase from the existing penalties of a fine of only $1,000 per copy and 12 months' imprisonment," the spokesman said.
The spokesman added that apart from the increased penalties for first conviction, repeat offenders are now liable to a second tier of higher penalties.
Repeat offenders who possess infringing copies of copyright works for trade and business purposes are now liable to a fine of $50,000 per infringing copy and four years' imprisonment.
Repeat offenders who possess a plate for manufacturing infringing copyright works are now liable to a maximum fine of $500,000 and imprisonment for eight
years.
"Copyright piracy is a serious crime and repeat offenders will have to be punished more severely. Both first and repeat offenders are generally tried summarily but in serious cases they are liable to conviction on indictment," the spokesman said.
"The prosecution will now have the greater flexibility in choosing the most appropriate court for trial."
Under the new law, the management of corporations and partnerships engaged in copyright infringement activities will be liable to the same penalties.
"This has plugged a loophole in the Copyright Ordinance," he added.
"The Customs and Excise Department will continue their vigorous enforcement efforts against copyright piracy. Additional resources have been allocated to the department to create new posts in its Intellectual Property Investigation Bureau," the spokesman said.
"The department will continue to strengthen its intelligence network and to target enforcement action against syndicates at border control points as well as the wholesale level."
End/Friday, May 26, 1995